Scotland 0-0 USA: Howard steady in Hampden Park snoozefest

By Ives Galarcep

Jurgen Klinsmann's side turned in a lethargic performance in a scoreless draw against Scotland at Hamden Park, though the effort did improve after halftime.

It started out as a match to forget, but a promising second half provided some consolation for the U.S. national team in a 0-0 tie against Scotland at Hampden Park in Glasgow.

Playing without injured stars Clint Dempsey and Landon Donovan, the Americans provided little threat in a sloppy first half controlled by Scotland, but improved in the second half as some promising substitutes gave the U.S. attack some sorely needed energy.

Tim Howard was the U.S. team's best player, making four saves to record the shutout, including a first-class diving stop to deny a well-placed Robert Snodgrass free kick in the 55th minute.

Jurgen Klinsmann's starting lineup came out flat, with his team's 4-2-3-1 formation providing little threat to Scotland's defense. Sacha Kljestan slotted into a playmaking role but was unable to generate chances. Jermaine Jones struggled in the match as well.

Things changed in the second half, with Aron Johannsson and Brek Shea providing a boost of energy to the U.S. lineup. Johannsson was unable to find the net, but did get into some good positions and saw one quality scoring chance saved well. He also sent another close-range chance wide of goal.

It was another frustrating day for Jozy Altidore, who found no real quality chances playing in front of a U.S. midfield that just never did find a good rhythm.

Eric Lichaj came on for the USA in the second half, making his first appearance for the national team since the CONCACAF Gold Cup final in June 2011.

The USA closes out 2013 on Tuesday with a friendly against Austria in Vienna.